My Design Weekends

What a spectacular entrance to this annual event at David Jones, Sydney. I love the reference to the spring fashion direction with their theme 'fleuressence'.

Having said that ... I am not sure that I can embrace the whole fleuro fashion statement ... maybe a scarf.

However ... the idea of bringing fleuro into the home as summer approaches is a fun concept. It need only be a vibrant cushion, vase, platter, towels or flowers !!

Each year, the ground floor of David Jones is transformed into a floral fantasy for the start of Spring. I have such fond memories of the trip into the city with the express purpose of viewing the 'David Jones Spring Flowers' and can't recall ever being disappointed.

With my recent flurry of activity in the garden ie weeding, watering, spraying and watching out for (on an almost hourly basis) buds on my newly planted white iceberg shrub roses, I have suffered the irritation of constantly having to return to the house, take off muddy gloves and boots for something – whether it be a tissue drink of water or to scribble something earthshatteringly important down on paper lest it be gone forever.

This prompted me after quite some time being irritated, to sit down and compile the definitive list of all things needed at ones fingertips for a session in the garden. These may not be everyones essentials but they are mine!

gardening gloves

both mobile and handsfree house phone ( I am sure most people garden to escape such devices however I do run a business and yes, still feel guilty about gardening when I know I should be doing work - real work!)

insect repellant

sunscreen

hat

pen and paper – to make a note of jobs you see to be done, purchases - fertilizer/spray/ new sprinkler/just the right plant to fill a gap

my trusty little blue transistor radio – especially to listen to the ABC gardening show on Saturday morning

sunglasses

tissues

I keep these in a basket in the mud room so that I can grab it and go whenever the mood takes me. I have also learnt to keep together in the shed my most used tools such as rake, fork, small pointy ended shovel, small digger and small clippers.

The only thing missing is the timely arrival of someone caring with a tray of tea and adora cream biscuits!! Someone who will admire all your hard work, the fruits of your labour and listen with interest to your future grand plans. My mother filled this slot beautifully and I miss her a lot when I am in the garden. When home my beautiful daughter will take over this role lovingly and it is such a treat.